August 23, 2017

Both liquid and powder foundations can cover blemishes, even skin tone, and protect your skin from the sun depending on the product. The real question is, which foundation is best for you?

You should choose powder foundation if you:

Have younger skin

Have oily skin

Need something that’s easy to reapply

Often sweat

Have sensitive skin

Want something fast to apply

You should choose liquid foundation if you:

Have older skin

Have dry skin

Have wrinkles, deep lines, or facial dents

Are sensitive to the sun

Want long-lasting coverage

Have acne-prone skin

Advantages of Powder Foundation

If you want something that will last all day, choose powder foundation. While powder is less likely to stay on and cover any acne, it is easily brushed over concealer for a nice matte finish. Your skin doesn’t absorb the powder like it might a liquid, which means that powder foundation is great for those with an oily skin type.

Disadvantages of Powder Foundation

Powder foundation is known for being harder to apply evenly and smoothly. It can often become patchy and look like it’s caked on your face. If you’re looking for a smooth, glowing finish, a powder foundation probably won’t be able to achieve the look you’re looking for.

Advantages of Liquid Foundation

Liquid foundation is great at covering up acne and other skin blemishes. There are many different formulas so you can find one that works best for you. If you need something that lasts all day long, liquid foundation is likely to last without multiple touch-ups during the day.

Disadvantages of Liquid Foundation

Unlike powder foundation, liquid foundation takes more time to apply. You really have to smooth and work the product to get it to blend evenly between your face and neck. Liquid foundation can also be extremely hard to match your skin tone. If the undertone of your skin doesn’t match the undertone of the foundation, the product can make your skin look unnatural.

Choose Both!

Want the best of both worlds? Choose to apply both a liquid and powder foundation to give your face both the matte and the glow, depending on what look you’re going for. When choosing both kinds of foundation, it’s important not to put too much foundation on, so your makeup doesn’t look caked on. Also, make sure to put the liquid on first then the powder. If you apply the powder first, the liquid will just wipe off, since the powder doesn’t stick to the face.

What to Look For in a Foundation

Trying to figure out what to look for when buying a foundation? It can be hard to know what’s best for you. The most important thing to remember is to purchase a foundation based on your skin type and skin routine. Some foundations come with acne-fighting ingredients to make your daily skin routine easier. Others have moisturizers or are oil-free depending on if your skin is dry or oily. Want all-day coverage but don’t want to constantly reapply throughout the day? Choose a foundation, powder or liquid, that is formulated to last all day.

Are you someone who cares deeply about your skin and the products you use? In our cosmetology or esthetics programs, you can learn makeup best practices and find out what foundations work best for each skin type!